It’s the season of giving at Canadian Blood Services.
“There continues to be an immediate need or blood donors to book and keep appointments during this busy season to ensure patients’ needs are met,” said Marisa Gatfield, territory manager of donor relations and collections in the area.
“Every donation counts and new and returning donors are especially needed right now to book and keep blood donation appointments as we head into the New Year. Patients’ lives depend on donors every day.”
A blood donor clinic is being held in Dresden on Tuesday, January 4, 2022. Here are the details:
A blood donor clinic is being held in Wallaceburg on Tuesday, February 15, 2022. Here are the details:
“With rising concerns of the COVID-19 Omicron variant, many people are considering a change in their holiday plans, but the ongoing need for blood for patients remains the same,” Gatfield said.
“Appointments are necessary as part of the COVID-19 protocol. There are currently over a dozen available appointments (in Dresden.) Canadian Blood Services is a fully vaccinated workplace with enhanced wellness measures in place throughout all donor centers. If donors are not able to come in for their appointment, it is very important that they cancel as early as possible. This allows Canadian Blood Services the opportunity to fill the appointment and ensure collections are met.”
Gatfield said collection opportunities were lost over several days because of the timing of statutory holidays this season, which could put the platelet inventory at risk.
“Platelets have a shelf life of only seven days,” Gatfield said.
“They are a vital blood component that helps make blood clot. One of the most common uses for platelets is to treat cancer patients. Pooled platelets are produced by separating platelets from whole blood after donation. It takes five whole blood donations to receive the same number of platelets as a single apheresis platelet donation.”
Gatfield said Canadian Blood Services have recently changed their social media handle to: @Lifeline.SW.ON for Instagram, Twitter and Facebook, covering the area from Windsor to Guelph.
For more details, and to book an appointment, visit: blood.ca
